The day began with high expectations and ended with unforgettable moments, as the girls' and boys' teams from WIS and KIS went to battle...

The girls' match didn't start the way WIS had planned with KIS scoring two first-half tries, taking a 10-0 lead. WIS had their opportunities but couldn't quite get over the line early. However, WIS refused to yield and launched a powerful comeback in the second half. With grit and determination, WIS scored three tries to KISs one, clinching a nail-biting victory with a final score of 17-15. 

The match showcased not only the skills of the players but also their ability to adapt and thrive under pressure.

The boys' match unfolded as a tale of two halves, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of rugby sevens. KIS started with energy quickly amassing a 17-0 lead by halftime. Early setbacks put WIS on the defensive, but they rallied back in the second half with a display of teamwork and fight. Despite their impressive comeback, WIS fell just short, with KIS claiming a hard-fought victory 22-19. The match ended on a dramatic note as time expired just after WIS scored their third try, leaving no opportunity for a restart.

In a competition as closely contested as this, every point and try mattered. The shield ultimately was handed over to KIS on a countback points system (37 points to 36).

As the teams look forward to competing at AIMS games in September, coaches Matua Tai and Matua Joel are optimistic about the potential of their squads. They are organised and ready to rip into training again when school returns in Term 3. There is a Year 7/8 Northland wide tournament scheduled which will give both teams valuable game time to work on their game plans.

Special thanks to all of you amazing kaiako and management for coming out with your classes in support of the kura and our student athletes.  It was great to have the use of WBHS for today, along with some of their 1st XV players running the touch line and controlling the scoreboard.